CARVIN C1648 - User Manual

Carvin has been serving the music community since 1946. From touring
professionals to bands at local clubs, our consoles have been at the heart
of their systems. Noted musicians such as Frank Zappa, Steve Vai &
Craig Chaquico have used Carvin consoles over the years.
Whether you are a rental company, touring band, recording artist,
nightclub, DJ, house of worship, school or theater, Carvin Audio has the
features and performance you can rely on night after night.
Simplicity In Operation
Ease of operation is incredibly important. The C Series consoles are
designed with the operator in mind. Everything is logically arranged.
Simply plug-in the channels, adjust the monitor levels and bring up
the main L/R faders and you’re up and running. If you need EQ (tone
changes), simply dial in the sound you want. The C Series is designed
on a small-scale platform making it easy to transport. No other console
offers more channels per linear inch.
Improving Your Live Sound
Your decision to own a C Series mixer will not only be for its ease of use,
but also for it’s incredible sonic capabilities. Your audience will quickly
notice how everything just sounds better with clear highs, natural mid
tones and a bass that is deep and punchy. Musicians on the stage will
appreciate the clarity they’ll get from their monitors. With THD less than
0.01%, every sound will remain pure to its source.
USB Record/Play
The USB connectivity allows digital recording of your
L/R stereo mix direct to your computer using a single
cable. The USB interface also gives you high quality
audio output from your computer into the console via the same cable.
Set-up playlists on your computer for unlimited hours of automated
playback through your sound system.
Stringent Testing
Our Quality Control department personally inspects every mixing
console. After the physical inspection, the most critical and most
important part of QC testing is to run every input channel and master
section connector through Audio Precision™ computers to verify every
function. This means everything meets 100% of its specifications.
This is great assurance that every EQ section, every output delivers the
highest voltages with the lowest possible distortion. The chart below
shows a 0 dBu signal into the XLR channel with a THD of only 0.002%
at Master Out.
Construction
Carvin Audio is passionate about delivering high-end audio through
engineering design and manufacturing processes. Ultra low-noise, high
slew rate IC’s are used for exceptional sound. “SMT” Surface Mount
Technology components ensure tight tolerances. Sealed controls and
switches guard against the elements. Steel chassis protect from physical
damage and repel RF noise.
C1648
C1648P
16262 WEST BERNARDO DR. SAN DIEGO, CA 92127
800-854-2235 CARVINAUDIO.COM
BUILT IN
USA
USER MANUAL
C3248, C2448, C1648, C1648P Concert Series Mixers
C2448
C3248
RECEIVING INSPECTION—read before getting started
INSPECT YOUR UNIT FOR DAMAGE which may have occurred during shipping. If damage is found
please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.
SAVE THE CARTON & ALL PACKING MATERIALS. In the event you have to re-ship your unit, always
use the original carton and packing material. This will provide the best possible protection during ship-
ment. CARVIN and the shipping company are not liable for any damage caused by improper packing.
SHIPMENT SHORTAGE. If you find items missing, they may have been shipped separately. Please
allow several days for the rest of your order to arrive before inquiring.
RECORD THE SERIAL NUMBER on the enclosed warranty card and below for your records. Keep
your portion of the card and return the portion with your name and comments to us.
SERIAL #_________________________ INVOICE #___________________ DATE___________

CARVIN C1648 Specifications

General

Channels	16
Aux Sends	4
Phantom Power	Yes
Type	Analog
Inputs - Line	16
Inputs - Other	2 x RCA (Stereo)
Effects	Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Flange
Outputs	Main, Subgroup, Monitor, Stereo

Summary

Key Mixer Features and Benefits

Simplicity In Operation

Describes the user-friendly, logical arrangement and ease of setup for C Series consoles.

Improving Your Live Sound

Highlights the sonic capabilities, clear highs, natural mids, and deep, punchy bass.

USB Record;Play Functionality

Details USB connectivity for digital recording of L/R stereo mix and computer audio output.

Stringent Quality Control Testing

Explains the rigorous Quality Control process using Audio Precision computers for verification.

Construction and Durability

Focuses on build quality, low-noise ICs, SMT components, steel chassis, and sealed controls.

Receiving Inspection and Handling

Provides essential instructions for inspecting the unit upon arrival and handling shipping damage.

Operating Instructions and Quick Start

Quick Start Up Guide

Guides users through initial setup, including connecting AC power, inputs/outputs, and powering on.

C Series Mixer Controls Overview

Channel Features and Functions

Details individual input channel controls like Gain, EQ, Mute, PFL, and assignment switches.

Master Section Controls

Describes controls for effects, monitor sends, group faders, master outputs, and EQs.

Detailed Control Descriptions

Channel Controls (17-29)

Explains controls such as Phantom Power, Effects Sends, Monitor Sends, Group Faders, and Compressors.

Master and Monitoring Controls (30-35)

Details controls for headphone monitoring, meter sources, graphic EQs, and EQ switching.

Connectivity and Output Controls (36-46)

Covers USB power ports, effect outputs, returns, monitor outputs, group outputs, and rear connectors.

Accessories and Wireless Systems

Optional Accessories

Lists accessories like USB LED light, road warrior cases, and cables for mixer connectivity.

UX600 Wireless Systems

Details the integration of optional UX600R receivers, handheld mics, and beltpack transmitters.

Powered C1648 P Rear Panel Operation

Speaker Output and Cable Guidelines

Explains the use of SPEAKON and 1/4" speaker outputs, cable gauge, and impedance.

Amplifier Routing and Patch Inserts

Details the AMP ROUTING switch and AMP PATCH INSERT jacks for flexible signal routing.

Amplifier Protection Indicators

Explains the function of AMP CLIP LEDs and the PROTECT LED for amp status.

Sound Check Procedures

Live Sound System Setup

Discusses input signal flow, stage vs. remote mixing, and the importance of snake cables.

Performing a Sound Check

Outlines steps for testing inputs, adjusting levels, EQ, and managing performer feedback.

Channel Connections and Sub-Mixing

Input Connections

Details using XLR Mic inputs, 1/4" Line inputs, and connecting stereo instruments.

Sub-Mixing Techniques

Explains assigning channels to sub-group faders for simplified mixing and stereo imaging.

Master Outputs and EQ

Main and Sub-Group Outputs

Describes using Master L/R outputs, Mono/Sub output, and sub-group outputs for fills.

9-Band Graphic EQ Usage

Explains adjusting graphic EQ sliders for tone enhancement and feedback reduction.

Technical Specifications

Mixer Specifications

Lists frequency response, THD, E/N ratio, mic/line gain, and power requirements.

C1648 P Power Amp Specs

Details power output, impedance, THD, output mode, and power requirements for the C1648P.

Mixer Dimensions

Provides physical dimensions for the C1648, C2448, C3248, and C1648P models.

Important Safety and Compliance Information

General Safety Warnings

Provides crucial safety warnings regarding electrical shock, water exposure, and ventilation.

Limited Warranty Details

Outlines the terms and conditions of the 1-year limited warranty for Carvin products.

European Safety Compliance

Indicates compliance with relevant European safety standards (CE marking).